United Kingdom

Police fight to crack down on all-day illegal Easter Sunday rave in Dorset

Police defended their response to an all-day Easter rave involving at least 1,000 revelers at an army training ground in Dorset.

Officials warned partygoers not to cross military facilities on their way to the East Lulworth event, which caused “anxiety and embarrassment” to locals.

The rave took place near Bovington Military Base on land belonging to the Department of Defense, and was finally dispersed late Sunday night, more than 21 hours after the start.

Dorset police said they worked with the fire service, the council and the Department of Defense to clear the area – as they used drones to monitor the crowds

“Understandably, we have received a number of calls from concerned and upset residents whose sleep has been disrupted by noise levels coming from the illegal event,” said Sam de Rhea, deputy chief of police.

“I would like to assure them that we are fully aware of this unauthorized large gathering and are working proactively … to bring the event to an end.”